These Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs are the epitome of elegant, yet effortless appetizers. The flaky puff pastry encases a rich and creamy filling made from a blend of tangy cream cheese, savory Parmesan, and earthy spinach, punctuated by subtle hints of dill and nutmeg. The result is a delightful bite-sized treat with a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (17.3-ounce) package frozen puff pastry sheets (2 sheets), thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spinach: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Thaw the frozen spinach according to package instructions, then drain it thoroughly by pressing it between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried dill weed, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended. Add the drained spinach and cooked onion-garlic mixture to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out each puff pastry sheet slightly to smooth out creases. Cut each sheet into 9 equal squares (or more if you prefer smaller puffs).
- Assemble the Puffs: Place a small spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Apply Egg Wash: Place the assembled puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to ensure they don’t overbrown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the puffs to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They are delicious warm or at room temperature.
